First Day Fun

So yesterday was filled with lots of exciting events. We started with an amazing workshop at San Fransisco State University. From there we explored the beautiful campus and had a nice lunch on campus. We then made our way to Grace Cathedral and held an open concert to all. It was a really good experience for all of us. The group learned a lot from the experience at the university and at Grace Cathedral, and are sure we will take what we learned and apply it to our everyday learning at North. After singing, we had some time to take cable cars to Fisherman's Wharf and walk around the pier. Followed by dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe, we went to a local improv show where a number of our group members participated. Lastly, after a good night sleep, we are ready for another action packed day!

Choir Performance at Grace Cathedral

After a wonderful morning at San Francisco State University, we headed downtown to Grace Cathedral for our performance.  The cathedral was stunning, and while it was exciting to explore the space, it was even more thrilling to sing in it!

We continued the tradition of closing our concert with the North High Alma Mater - we even had a few audience members singing with us!

The massive cathedral space is hard to see from our performance pictures - these might give one a clearer picture.  They had strands of ribbon hanging from the ceiling which looked beautiful especially with the sunlight streaming in from the stained glass windows.

San Francisco State, Sunshine and Fisherman's Wharf

Hitting the Ground Running

To say that San Francisco hit us like a blizzard in March (which actually happens back home) is an understatement. Though the term "culture shock" crosses my mind, it's been a good kind of shock- eye opening and exciting in every way. Starting the day off with words of wisdom from San Francisco State's Dr. Brandes was definitely a highlight, and I think I speak for each of us seniors who are planning to pursue music next year that she had some very reassuring things to say about the music world and having the courage to do what you love. No matter how much a musician loves his or her craft, there is always that lingering doubt that passion might not be enough; however, Dr. Brandes said that no matter what field you enter, there is always a chance that it won't work out. What really matters is that you put your whole self into your work, because if you really love it, that will be enough. To hear this from someone so seasoned re inspired my confidence that music is what I love, and music is what I will always do in some form. The clinic was a truley memorable experience, and I can't wait to see what the rest of the trip has in store.

Annie Ketchmark

Our Clinic At San Francisco State University

Had an amazing experience at the clinic at San Francisco University thanks to Dr. Brandes. So excited for our performance at Grace Cathedral!
- Emma Rotz

Another Great Day: The Mission, Carmel, and Monterey

What a fun-filled day! We woke up early for a scenic drive to Monterey Area and Pebble Beach - needless to say the views were GORGEOUS! From there we enjoyed a trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Carmel Mission Bisilica. We ended our day with a delicious meal at Bubba Gumps. Looking forward to another great day! Goodnight San Francisco!

And We're Off!!!